Work input and launch height of an elastomeric popper: a quantitative study

Rohan Dela Rosa; Mason Levine; Deven Khettry

doi:10.64804/9p4r7z72

Authors

Rohan Armand Andreu Dela Rosa Science & Engineering Magnet Program , Manalapan High School
Mason Levine Science & Engineering Magnet Program , Manalapan High School
Deven Khettry Science & Engineering Magnet Program , Manalapan High School

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64804/9p4r7z72

Keywords:

work, energy, force, energy conservation, popper, elastomer, Tracker

Abstract

This study quantifies the relationship between mechanical work applied during compression of an elastomeric popper and the maximum height achieved at launch. Five compression depths (1.0 cm to 4.5 cm) were each replicated three times, yielding 15 trials total. Work input was determined via trapezoidal Riemann sums of force-displacement data collected with a calibrated scissor jack and digital force gauge. Initial launch velocity was extracted frame-by-frame using Tracker video analysis software (60 frame/s), and maximum height was measured optically against a calibrated scale. Results show strong positive linear correlations between work input and both launch kinetic energy (R² = 0.998) and peak gravitational potential energy (R² = 0.997). Across all compression levels, an average of 54 ± 1 % of the compression work was lost prior to launch, consistent with published hysteresis losses for natural rubber under rapid inversion. The remaining 1 % conversion loss from kinetic to gravitational potential energy is attributed to aerodynamic drag and is consistent with a simple drag estimate. These results confirm the hypothesized positive correlation between work input and launch height and are quantitatively consistent with conservation of energy when dissipative mechanisms are properly accounted for.

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